Permanently protecting land in the EcoPark System

The Cootes to Escarpment EcoPark System supports environmental protection and a system of publicly accessible parks, open space and trails for recreation and natural heritage appreciation. Increasing the amount of permanently protected land is important to ensuring long-term conservation of the Cootes to Escarpment area. Already just over half of the Cootes to Escarpment EcoPark System area is protected by the partner organizations. However, additional land needs to be protected to ensure ecological sustainability of this area over the long-term - by enlarging existing protected areas, creating wildlife corridors and ensuring connectivity between the Niagara Escarpment and Cootes Paradise and Hamilton Harbour.

Staff at the Cootes to Escarpment EcoPark System office can provide advice to landowners who are interested in learning about the range of options available to permanently protect their land and the financial and tax benefits they may realize. Conservation options may include donation, sale or conservation easement. The Leaving a Natural Legacy brochure (4 MB PDF) provides an overview of the different options available to landowners.

We can visit your property, work with you and your family to determine the best option that meets the needs of your circumstances, and provide guidance every step of the way.

If you would like to have an initial discussion with the EcoPark System Land Securement Coordinator, please contact Jen Baker at land@hamiltonnature.org or 905-524-3339.